clamp

n. [ Cf. LG. & D. klamp, Dan. klampe, also D. klampen to fasten, clasp. Cf. Clamber, Cramp. ] 1. Something rigid that holds fast or binds things together; a piece of wood or metal, used to hold two or more pieces together. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (a) An instrument with a screw or screws by which work is held in its place or two parts are temporarily held together. (b) (Joinery) A piece of wood placed across another, or inserted into another, to bind or strengthen. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. One of a pair of movable pieces of lead, or other soft material, to cover the jaws of a vise and enable it to grasp without bruising. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. (Shipbuilding) A thick plank on the inner part of a ship's side, used to sustain the ends of beams. [ 1913 Webster ]

5. A mass of bricks heaped up to be burned; or of ore for roasting, or of coal for coking. [ 1913 Webster ]

6. A mollusk. See Clam. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Clamp nails, nails used to fasten on clamps in ships. [ 1913 Webster ]